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The months of March and April are filled with fun events in the state of Arizona. Unfortunately, many of these fun events involve the drinking of alcoholic beverages. With the St. Patrick's holiday now in the books for another year, spring break and the March Madness basketball tournament will likely result in plenty of persons being arrested for driving under the influence (DUI) of alcohol or drugs.

In Gilbert, Chandler or other communities in Maricopa County, it is important that you consult Arizona lawyers experienced in DUI and related offenses like those associated with the Law Offices of Craig W. Penrod, P.C.

Law enforcement officers conduct extra DUI patrols especially in areas that feature strong interest in the NCAA men's and women's basketball tournaments. As Arizona DUI defense attorneys are aware, this time of year usually results in a substantial increase in the number of motor vehicle accidents, injuries and DUI arrests. Hopefully this year will be better than last year.

Spring in Arizona also brings about warmer weather with an increase in outdoor activities. It is also a time when college students hit the road for cheap destinations in Mexico including Puerto Penasco. Unfortunately, some college students chose to drink and drive or use drugs such as marijuana as they head for Mexico. The roads between Phoenix and Puerto Penasco can be unforgiving, especially through portions of the Sonoran Desert.

When crossing into Mexico it's possible you will be stopped at several checkpoints including initially at the border entry in Sonoyta as part of a routine customs inspection. Agents may ask you for your vehicle registration, Mexican insurance and what items you are bring into Mexico.

Mexico has increased efforts to reduce drug-related crime and help keep your drive to Puerto Penasco safe and enjoyable. Local, state, and federal police as well as the Mexican military will conduct random checkpoints on Route 8 to Puerto Penasco. While initially intimidating, the law enforcement officials conducting the searches are there for your safety. If it's a military check point the soldiers may wear masks to conceal their identity and will carry automatic assault rifles. They will ask you to step out of the vehicle. They will conduct their search looking in the vehicle, under the seats, in the trunk. In some cases they will search your belongings.

The most common check point upon leaving Sonoyta is when the Sonoyta police will stand in middle of the road with a radar gun. Before you even see the police they will be flagging you down to give you a speeding ticket. Our advice, go the speed limit in town.

On occasion you'll encounter a typical DUI check point similar to the U.S. checkpoints. Lower your car window so that law enforcement officers can observe if you appear to be under the influence. If all is well, you'll be on your way. The best attitude for young people is to avoid the use of alcoholic beverages and recreational drugs. A conviction for DUI can not only leave you facing jail time, it can impact your career after college, your reputation and your freedom to drive anywhere and any time you like.

If you are one of the unlucky ones arrested for DUI or a high BAC offense during March Madness, spring break, and the NCAA tournament, it is important that your legal situation should be handled by expert professionals with the experience possessed by the attorneys at the Law Offices of Craig W. Penrod, P.C. Our office offers free consultations for all DUI and criminal matters. Our Arizona DUI attorneys and Arizona criminal lawyers can provide you with the experience and knowledge needed for qualified representation. An experienced Arizona DUI lawyer is vital in DUI cases and our DUI attorneys set that standard. If you're in need of a criminal defense, our Arizona criminal attorneys are ready to assist you.

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About the Author

Craig W. Penrod was born and raised in Arizona and has practiced criminal defense for over 30 years. Mr. Penrod is a member of the State Bar of Arizona, Maricopa County Bar Association, State of Nevada Bar Association, American Bar Association, American Trial Lawyers Association, Arizona Trial Lawyers Association, Nevada Trial Lawyers Association, Arizona Attorneys for Criminal Justice and the National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers.